coaching/disgruntled parents

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coaching/disgruntled parents
By Dawn

Hi Anne,

My husband and I also co-coach girls soccer at the middle school where I teach. I absolutely understand your situation. Although my negative experience has been more with the players themselves, we have had
a few parents question our decisions.
First, do your principal and athletic director support you 100%? If so (and they should), you can rest easy knowing that if these parents do go over your head, the principal or AD will support you and send them packing. I think that usually takes the wind out of their sails, knowing that they can't undermine your authority.
You might even ask the

AD to make a point of being around during a game or practice, maybe mingling among the parents, and kind of let it be known that you're doing a wonderful job and that the school stands by you 100%. It might be as simple as that, IF the principal and AD are supportive.

If they're not, then maybe for your own sanity, giving up the team would be better. It would be very difficult to work without their support, facing these types of parents.

Finally, maybe this is a fluke year. And remember, you're in the middle of it right now. I always think that coaching is like being in labor--don't ask me DURING the season if I love it and am having fun. But when it's over, ask me and I'll tell you it was totally wonderful! You might get through it, look back at it with perspective, and then have a great group next year. You can always hope!!!

Good luck!